Michael Teoh: From victim to victor, inspiring a generation
Reflecting on his journey, Teoh emphasised the importance of seeking help and speaking up as key steps to overcoming traumatic experiences.
SHAH ALAM - Michael Teoh Su Lim, a successful entrepreneur and motivational speaker, has turned his painful experience of being bullied during his school years into a source of strength, using it to fuel his remarkable journey to success.
Reflecting on his journey, Teoh emphasised the importance of seeking help and speaking up as key steps to overcoming traumatic experiences.
As a prominent advocate for mental health awareness, Teoh serves as an icon for Movember, a month dedicated to raising awareness about men's physical and mental health.
In an exclusive interview with Sinar Daily, he shared how his struggles as a bullying victim shaped him into the person he is today.
His journey has led to opportunities to work with the government and ministries, where he inspires students to persevere despite adversity.
"I have to credit former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak for the ‘I Am For You’ campaign, which tackled the bullying culture and resonated deeply with me.
"Such initiatives should be cultivated further to address toxic environments effectively,” Teoh said.
Teoh stressed the importance of speaking up, especially in cultures where discussing personal struggles is often stigmatised.
"As Malaysians, we come from an Asian culture where we fear being seen as weak. But speaking up is the first step to finding solutions," he said.
He encouraged bullying victims to shift their mindset, viewing speaking out as a path toward solutions.
"When you speak up and seek help, you start mediating the situation.
"Whether at work or school, you can find ways to resolve the issue and decide your next step. That shift in mindset is crucial," he said.
Teoh, who founded Thriving Talents at the age of 24 to help individuals reach their full potential, highlighted the importance of having a reliable support system.
His company has served 15 per cent of Fortune 500 companies, including Microsoft, emphasising his expertise in personal and professional development.
"I'm grateful for my support system. It should consist of trusted individuals who provide a safe space, listen without judgment, and offer comfort," he said.
He advised reaching out to loved ones through simple avenues like phone calls or coffee meetups to share feelings and alleviate stress.
Teoh acknowledged that not everyone seeks advice when sharing their struggles.
"If you just need someone to listen, let them know. Set boundaries by saying, 'I’m here to express my thoughts, not to get advice right now.' This clarity fosters meaningful support," he added.
Teoh also emphasised the value of being open to receiving feedback and alternative perspectives from a support system.
"Sometimes, sharing your problem and asking for advice can offer new solutions. Set expectations clearly with your support system to get the right help," he said.
He cautioned against being too shy or unwilling to reach out for support, warning that self-isolation often leads to deeper struggles.
"We often don’t want to trouble others, but that reluctance can compound our problems. Reaching out is vital for mental well-being," he added.
Teoh's journey from being bullied to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur and National Youth Icon in the past is a testament to perseverance and the power of a positive mindset.
With the support of his network and his own resilience, Teoh overcame self-doubt to establish a personal development company that aligns with his passion for helping others.
Through his inspiring journey, Teoh continues to encourage others to speak up, seek help, and build strong support systems to overcome life’s challenges.
His story serves as a powerful reminder that adversity can be transformed into an opportunity for growth and success.
